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CUISINE
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The Topkapi Restaurant Re-Opened Its Door In Ottawa
YALÇIN DIKER The first Turkish Restaurant in Ottawa, The Topkapi, was opened in 1974 at Kent and Gloucester streets by Raif Erdogan. Raif had arrived in Canada in 1972 with a large, silver model of Döner Kebab machine, and a dream. He eventually had his machine re-wired to meet the electrical requirements of Canada, and opened his restaurant. By 1977, he had a complete Turkish Menu and on Thursday and Sundays, he threw his cherished Döner Kebab machine into gear and produced one of Turkey's most famous dishes, Döner Kebab. Some 32 years later, Raif's son Nail, buys an existing restaurant on Preston Street (Little Italy) and renames it the Topkapi, realizing his own dreams, as well as reviving his father's memories.
Nail was born in Turkey and arrived in Canada in October 1977 when he was only 15 years old. He worked with his dad in the family restaurant first as a dishwasher, a bus-boy, and then as a waiter after having learned enough English. His dad also taught him everything there is to know to become a good Chef. In 1980, Raif opened the Topkapi Take-Out Restaurant in the 240 Sparks Street Mall. Nail was the Chef and managed the day-to-day operations until his dad sold it in 1983. His dad then moved the business to a new location on Metcalfe Street. Nail worked in the kitchen until the restaurant was sold in 1988. In the meantime, Nail met his wife Chantal in 1982. She started working part-time as a waitress to help the family business until it was sold in 1988. She is therefore very familiar with the restaurant business.
Nail and Chantal are now the proud owners of revived Topkapi Restaurant now located on Preston Street. The many beautiful and tasty dishes are prepared by Oktay Karagöz, a certified Chef who graduated from a culinary school in Mengen (Turkey). Before coming to Canada, he was employed by the renowned Çiragan Palace Hotel in Istanbul since 1991. Guest at the Topkapi Turkish Restaurant can experience the Turkish hospitality in an elegant and quiet décor, and can choose from a large selection of dishes made of beef, lamb, chicken or fish. Vegetarian dishes and a children's menu are also available. Additionally, one must also try one of their deserts, perhaps accompanied by a Turkish tea or coffee, to complement their meal. The experience of eating at the Topkapi Turkish Restaurant is guaranteed to be delightful. Reservations are suggested. Topkapi Turkish
Restaurant June 2009 |
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